Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder skates into Belfast this Winter

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Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder skates into Belfast this Winter

Take a trip down memory lane, as Disney On Ice returns with a magical show for the whole family to enjoy

The SSE Arena, Belfast: Friday 17 November to Sunday 19 November

Extra tickets go on sale THIS Friday via www.ticketmaster.ie 

Grab your mouse ears and get ready as Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder skates into Belfast’s SSE Arena, with the magic of Disney’s 100th Anniversary closer than ever when Disney On Ice brings the celebration to you! Encanto joins the show for the very first time in the UK, inspiring families to make magical memories they will treasure forever.

The production will skate into The SSE Arena, Belfast from Friday 17 November to Sunday 19 November.

Tickets go on general sale Friday 15 September at www.disneyonice.co.uk & www.ticketmaster.ie

Relive magical Disney stories with all of your favourite characters in a family experience featuring classic Disney songs, world-class skating and incredible stunts. Mickey Mouse is joined by his friends on a journey to discover his favorite memory of all time. Families will be a part of the action and help the gang venture through Disney stories, sharing memorable moments from treasured tales. Journey to a vibrant town in the mountains of Colombia to meet Mirabel and her extraordinary family who live in a magical casita in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Sail away with Moana as she displays courage to save her island on a high-seas adventure with the demigod, Maui.  Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle as royal sisters Anna and Elsa discover true love is the most powerful magic of all and experience the mysterious magic of Fantasia as a Sorcerer’s Apprentice makes brooms come to life. “Live Your Story” alongside Disney Princesses as they use perseverance, determination and hard work to inspire Mickey and children to share their favorite Disney memories.  Just keep swimming with Dory, Nemo, Marlin and new pal Hank from Disney• Pixar’s Finding Dory and celebrate true friendship with Buzz Lightyear, Woody and The Toy Story gang.

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 11-17 September

  1. Cordial Making Workshop, Holywood, County Down, 16 September. Join visitor guide, Claire, to learn how to make your own cordial. As part of a three-hour workshop, you will forage for ingredients from the museum’s hedgerows and lanes before heading to the Parochial House to make the syrup. Take home the knowledge needed to make your own as well as a bottle of Folk Museum cordial to enjoy through the autumn.
  2. Mash Direct Belfast City Half Marathon, Belfast, County Antrim, 17 September. Watch the largest half marathon event in Northern Ireland on its fourth sell out year. This spectacular event runs through all areas of the city, starting and finishing in Ormeau Park. It will include a new section in East Belfast with the race using more of the greenway before heading into Victoria Park rather than travelling along the Sydenham bypass. Watch the largest half marathon event in Northern Ireland this is its fourth sell out year.
  3. Limitless Adventure Centre, Limavady, County Londonderry, throughout September. This is a must for all thrill seekers! There is an array of experiences on offer, you can pilot a hovercraft, try a Powerturn Buggy or have a go at archery, laser tag or football golf.
  4. Giant Bug Hotel Building Workshop, Bushmills, County Antrim, 16 September. Learn the important role creepy crawlies, such as ladybirds and woodlice, have in controlling pests, pollinating flowers, and keeping our gardens healthy. Help nature officer Henry Cliff make them a Giant Bug Hotel and find out how you can do the same in your own garden. A fun day out for all the little people in your life!
  5. Sunrise SUP & Island Yoga Experience, Killinchy, County Down, 17 September. Stand Up Paddleboarding is a slow form of adventure, a perfect way to switch off from the stresses of everyday life. It’s a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the physical & mental benefits of yoga in the outdoors. The basics of SUP will be covered in each class. The aim of each session is to paddle to an island and perform a yoga flow to maximize your connection with the outdoors.
  6. Born to be Wild, Omagh, County Tyrone, 16 September. Join Henrietta on a journey through the jungle in a new show sure to keep your little cheeky chimps entertained. She will be joined by a clever young Hippo who is always asking “Why?” as well as Eddie Elephant, Gilbert Giraffe and Deborah Zebra along the way. An action-packed stage show with audience participation.
  7. Awe & Alchemy, Armagh, County Armagh, 17 September. The Association for Contemporary Jewellery and Silversmiths Northern Ireland is celebrating the work of more than twenty makers from across Ireland, England and Scotland. The exhibition, held at the Market Place Gallery, will look at the diverse approaches towards values, material possibility, sustainability, and social connections, through the art of jewellery and adornment.
  8. Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails and Pump Track, Fivemiletown, County Tyrone, 10 September. Lying in the heart of the Clogher Valley the estate offers trails for all ages and abilities. Why not give the Pump Track a go? This short criss-crossing circular trail of rollers and berms where you use your weight distribution on the bike to flow over the features without having to use your pedals! Created by the world class the course designer for the Beijing Olympics these trails offer a fun day out. Bike hire is available via the website.
  9. Cocktail Hour Cruise, Killadeas, County Fermanagh, 13 September. Welcome aboard the luxury cruiser The Lady of The Lake for an evening of relaxation. Just as the light begins to soften, you’ll be treated to a delicious prosecco cocktail and a selection of locally sourced canapes as you take in the breathtaking beauty of Lough Erne on a 90-minute cruise. An experienced captain will tell you more about some of the historic landmarks that can be admired from the lake, with plenty of opportunities for photographs along the way!
  10. World Sheepdog Trials, Dromore, County Down, 13-16 September. More than two hundred competitors from over thirty countries will be gathered to see who’s top dog at the Gill Hall Estate. As well as seeing dogs showing their skill there’ be live demonstrations, the chance to enjoy live music and a funfair.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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City Hotel, Derry~ Londonderry, County Londonderry

Discover the culture and character of the Walled city with a two-night stay in a four-star hotel, including a two-course dinner on an evening of your choice. Take in the panoramic views of the river Foyle, and relax in the hotel’s leisure facilities which include a pool and steam room. You can explore the shops, bars and city attractions with the two-day Derry Visitor Pass which is included in the DB&B offer from £173 per person. Visit https://www.cityhotelderry.com for more information.

The Treehouse, Portglenone, County Antrim

The beautiful Treehouse B&B has everything you need for a relaxing stay, river Bann runs close by, and the forest is a few minutes from the front door. You can check out the nearby filming locations used in Game of Thrones® or explore Bellaghy and the Seamus Heaney Homeplace. A two-night stay is £180 per couple with a £20 voucher for dinner at the nearby Wild Duck Inn on an evening of your choice.  Visit https://thetreehousebandb.com for more information.

Shelleven Guest House, Bangor, County Down

1 night golf break! From £225 per room based on 2 people sharing a twin room. Enjoy an overnight stay with breakfast at this award-winning accommodation and play one round of 18-hole golf at Bangor Golf Club. Ideally located by the sea and town centre, walking distance to pubs & restaurant opportunities. Visit https://shellevenhouse.com  for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Interior Designer Ian Thompson Of Ian Thompson Interior Design To Speak At Momentum Digital Conference

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Belfast business and mindset event Momentum have announced Interior Designer Ian Thompson as a speaker for their forthcoming Night At The Museum. 

Owner and founder of Ian Thompson interior design, Ian and his team have been delighting clients with their unrivalled talent for striking the perfect balance between classic and contemporary interiors for almost four decades.

His talk Designing Success: The Journey of a Leading Designer in Northern Ireland will take attendees on his road trip, 39 years, of award winning design for successful people. This talk offers invaluable insights into building a personal brand, cultivating client relationships and standing out in a crowded market.

Momentum: A Night At The Museum, supported by Gekkoshot, will take place at the Ulster Museum on September 22, and Ian is only one of the all-star speaker lineup being revealed that includes leading names in hospitality, mindset, marketing, ecommerce, data and much more.

Speaking of his involvement with the event Ian said: “In my session, ‘Designing Success; The Journey of A Leading NI Designer’, I aim to demystify the journey of building a successful brand in the design industry. Through sharing personal anecdotes, challenges faced, and victories celebrated.

“In the dynamic world of interior design, I believe the pivotal topic at the moment is Authenticity in Branding and Design. With design platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram offering a deluge of inspiration, there’s a risk of spaces becoming replicas of one another. These tools, while valuable, can sometimes blur individual creativity, leading to a sea of similar designs.”

According to organisers Warren Giffin and Amée Spence, the event plans to bridge the gap between business needs and mindset support.

“We’re delighted to be bringing Momentum back for a second event, building upon the resounding success of our inaugural event back in January at The MAC” explained Warren, adding: “Last time we had fantastic speakers such as self-made entrepreneur and CEO of Bellamianta & Iconic Bronze, Linda Stinson, as well as passionate mental health advocate and Let’s Face It podcast host, Domhnall Nugent.

“This time we’re excited to get ready to announce an equally special lineup of industry experts who will give our attendees a night to remember.”

“In Ian’s session ‘Designing Success; The Journey of A Leading NI Designer’, he will share personal experiences to highlight the significance of individual vision, building lasting client relationships, standing out in a competitive market, and the crucial role of authenticity in design. Attendees will leave inspired and armed with strategies to navigate and succeed in whichever industry they are in. 

Tickets for Momentum: A Night At The Museum on September 22, 7:00pm-late are now on sale from thisismomentum.co.uk  

Creative Entrepreneur Sarah McBriar Of AVA To Speak At Momentum Digital Conference

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Belfast business and mindset event Momentum have announced Creative Entrepreneur Sarah McBriar as a speaker for their forthcoming Night At The Museum digital conference.

Sarah, who is the founder and creative director of AVA, the UK’s leading audio visual arts festival and conference, showcasing the UK’s trailblazing audio visual arts industry will be tackling the subject of being a creative entrepreneur and what that means in today’s society.

Her talk “How to stay one step ahead as a creative entrepreneur” will ask what entrepreneurship looks like in the creative arts and cultural entertainment landscape and answer the burning question ‘what does a creative entrepreneur need in this new age to stay ahead of the curve and keep audiences engaged?’

Momentum: A Night At The Museum, supported by Gekkoshot, will take place at the Ulster Museum on September 22, and Sarah is only one of the all-star speaker lineup being revealed that includes leading names in hospitality, mindset, marketing, ecommerce, data and much more.

Speaking of her involvement with the event Sarah said: “Momentum is what the creative business community needs… a fun and relaxed evening with experienced entrepreneurs sharing their knowledge through focused topics and a space to network. 

“I started AVA & UP Productions ten years ago, through my journey I have experienced many twists and turns, and it was the advice and support from fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders who helped me navigate many challenges, survive and thrive. 

“I want to do my part to help, impart my knowledge to others, and if this can inspire someone to take the leap or have confidence to be bold, in a city I care deeply about then I have done my job.”

According to organisers Warren Giffin and Amée Spence, the event plans to bridge the gap between business needs and mindset support.

“We’re delighted to be bringing Momentum back for a second event, building upon the resounding success of our inaugural event back in January at The MAC” explained Warren, adding: “Last time we had fantastic speakers such as self-made entrepreneur and CEO of Bellamianta & Iconic Bronze, Linda Stinson, as well as passionate mental health advocate and Let’s Face It podcast host, Domhnall Nugent.

“This time we’re excited to get ready to announce an equally special lineup of industry experts who will give our attendees a night to remember.”

During Sarah’s talk on creative entrepreneurship she hopes attendees will take away “An understanding of how to reflect on the current climate, identify trends and needs, and build confidence in bringing forward an offering to their potential customer, in a creative, exciting and innovative way.”

Sarah also plans to give top tips on how to act ahead of your competitor, and create a relationship with your audience. 

She added: “We’ll also be talking about what skills creative entrepreneurs need and how they should focus their time and revenue into staying ahead of the curve.”

Tickets for Momentum: A Night At The Museum on September 22, 6.30pm-late are now on sale from thisismomentum.co.uk  

eCommerce Expert Ryan Clarke Latest Speaker To Join The Bill At Momentum Digital Conference

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Belfast business and mindset event Momentum have announced eCommerce expert Ryan Clarke as the latest speaker to join the bill for their forthcoming Night At The Museum digital conference.

Ryan, who is the Head of Ecommerce at STATSports, will be dissecting what it really takes to grow in eCommerce in 2023.

His talk “CX Sells: Optimising your Customer’s Buying Journey in eCommerce” will break down the customer buying journey from creative to checkout. Ryan will also provide the audience with his model to acquire attention, before acquiring the customer. 

Momentum: A Night At The Museum, supported by Gekkoshot, will take place at the Ulster Museum on September 22, Ryan is the second of an all-star speaker lineup being revealed that includes leading names in hospitality, mindset, marketing, ecommerce, data and much more.

Speaking of his involvement with the event Ryan said: “I signed up to Momentum because it’s part of a small group of local events that have taken a really alternative approach to try and grow the industry. 

“Throughout my talk I’ll be using real life examples (good, bad and occasionally very ugly), of what STATSports growth has looked like across global marketing campaigns spanning over 100 countries. And a bit of insight into our ‘Will It Make the Boat Go Faster’ methodology for blocking out the noise for driving growth.

“What I like about Momentum is that it’s not a speaker lineup full of sponsors essentially doing sales pitches. Momentum have managed to pull together a bunch of individuals from across a wide range of areas who have built something great. 

“I’m buzzing to be able to get on stage with people I really admire, and since it’s in a museum that automatically makes the topics more important by association, right?!”

According to organisers Warren Giffin and Amée Spence, the event plans to bridge the gap between business needs and mindset support.

“We’re delighted to be bringing Momentum back for a second event, building upon the resounding success of our inaugural event back in January at The MAC” explained Warren, adding: “Last time we had fantastic speakers such as self-made entrepreneur and CEO of Bellamianta & Iconic Bronze, Linda Stinson, as well as passionate mental health advocate and Let’s Face It podcast host, Domhnall Nugent.

“This time we’re excited to get ready to announce an equally special lineup of industry experts who will give our attendees a night to remember.”

During Ryan’s talk on eCommerce hopes attendees will take away “tangible and tested methods for eCommerce that they can steal and apply to their own marketing strategy for 2024”.

Also announced to speak at Momentum is Sarah McBriar, founder and creative director of AVA, the UK’s leading audio visual arts festival and conference. She will be speaking on “How to stay one step ahead as a creative entrepreneur”.

Sarah said: “Momentum is what the creative business community needs… a fun and relaxed evening with experienced entrepreneurs sharing their knowledge through focused topics and a space to network.” 

Tickets for Momentum: A Night At The Museum on September 22, 6.30pm-late are now on sale from thisismomentum.co.uk  

Jacqueline shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI

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Antrim

SPINNING YARNS is a one-day Festival celebrating the wonderful world of all things associated with wool & linen where we will showcase the colour, creativity and craft associated with these homespun yarns in all their forms.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Forest bathing retreat, Killeavy Castle Estate. Rest, reconnect and re-energise during this unique Nurturing Nature retreat, nestled within 350 acres of woodland and a working farm, at the foot of the volcanic mountain Slieve Gullion.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

The Stormont Hotel Wedding Show takes place on Sunday 3rd September between 1pm and 4pm at the Stormont Hotel and admission is free!

Find out more HERE

Down

The Eats and Beats festival in Newcastle is a celebration of food and music that brings together the best of both worlds. From delicious local cuisine to live performances by some of the hottest acts around, this festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves great food and great music.

Find out more HERE

Fermanagh

Lough Erne Pilgrim Way Exhibition.  The Lough Erne Pilgrim Way exhibition is part of a wider programme of events, itineraries, online resources, community engagement, access improvements and conservation initiatives.

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Dreamscapes, Landscapes, Escapes, The Seamus Heaney Homeplace, Bellaghy.  Featuring Catherine Graham, Kate Newmann, Kathleen McCracken and John T Davies.

Find out more HERE

Tyrone

Dungannon Comedy Festival returns this September for another night of side-splitting laughter with Micky Bartlett, Ciarán Bartlett, William Thompson, Conor Keys and Talal Jomar.

Find out more HERE

 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 4-10 September

  1. Armagh Food and Cider Weekend, Armagh, County Armagh, 7-10 September. The Armagh Bramley enjoys protected status, a sign of its uniqueness. This festival celebrates the orchard county and city, coming alive with open air markets, cookery masterclasses, tasting dinners and, of course, orchard and cider tours. One of the highlights is the Bramley Apple Banquet.
  2. Mourne Seafood Cookery School, Kilkeel, County Down, throughout September. Immerse yourself in the ultimate ‘catch to cook’ experience. Based at the Nautilus Centre at Kilkeel Harbour, experience the joy of using the finest locally caught seafood and artisan produce. The ethos is fun, relaxed teaching aimed at inspiring the home cook to extend their skills while highlighting the benefits of eating seafood.
  3. Tree Tours of Lurgan Park, Lurgan, County Armagh, 9 September. Join Paul May on this unique tour to discover the wonderful heritage of this historic park and the native and non-native tree species that inhabit it. Learn how our ancestors used the wood from the various trees and hear the legends and folklore that surround them. Suitable for all ages and abilities. The event is free, but booking is required.
  4. World Illustration Awards Exhibition, Limavady, County Londonderry, 4-10 September. This unique exhibition showcases the industry’s very best, from emerging new talent to well-established illustrators. More than five thousand entries from 77 countries were whittled down to get to what you can see here.
  5. Tour of Ebrington, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry 9 September. Join Manus Deery, on a walking tour examining the fortifications of the 19th century Ebrington Square and Star Fort. Learn about past and present plans for the area. The two-hour tour will examine the fortifications of the 19th century fort and the city walls.
  6. Crom Estate, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, 9 September. Roam the acres of parkland and native broadleaved woodland on the shores of Upper Lough Erne. Explore the ruins of the old castle and see Crom’s famous ancient yew trees for yourself. The area is an important conservation site and makes a great day out.
  7. Art and Soul, Holywood, County Down, 4-10 September. The lush grounds of the Culloden Estate and Spa on the shores of Belfast Lough will be transformed inside and out by 250 artworks by some of the biggest names in international and Irish art. Among those featured are Patrick O’Reilly, Ian Pollock, Giacinto Bosco and Salvador Dali. The exhibition is free and guided tours are available three times daily.
  8. Belfast Maritime Festival, Belfast, County Antrim, 9-10 September. Watch the Titanic Quarter come alive with free entertainment for all to enjoy with live music, interactive demonstrations, street performers and a specially created beach play area. This event, a legacy from the Tall Ships, will host its first Science Street, celebrating all things marine. There’ll be workshops with sustainability as a central theme and underwater robots. For ‘water’ of a different kind there’ll be discounted tickets to the Titanic Distillery, food vendors and a Belfast Bazaar showcasing local makers.
  9. Walk & Talk – Omagh’s Built Heritage, Omagh, County Tyrone, 10 September. Join Vincent Brogan on a guided walk around Omagh town, where you will get to see, hear and learn about key aspects of town’s-built heritage. Part of the European Open Doors Day Festival.
  10. Poyntzpass Guided History Walk, Poyntzpass, County Armagh, 9-10 September. This is part of European Heritage Open Days and gives locals and visitors alike the chance to learn more about some of the area’s hidden gems and most interesting historical sites such as the canal and Poyntzpass Railway station.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, County Down

Bask in nature at The Old Inn, with Treetop Spa access included in your stay, to ensure you have a tranquil Autumn retreat in cosy Crawfordsburn. Indulge in gourmet dining in The Restaurant and enjoy a relaxed cosy vibe in the 1614 Bar. DB&B from £260 per room. Visit https://www.theoldinn.com for more information.

Valley View Country House, Bushmills, County Antrim

This four-star B and B is close to the Giant’s Causeway, The Dark, hedges and Bushmills Distillery and is a great base for exploring the causeway coast. Enjoy a two-night stay in a self-catering lodge from £160. Visit https://www.valleyviewbushmillsaccommodation.com/ for more information.

Finn Lough, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Enjoy an Elements Spa Escape and choose between a bespoke suite or villa and flow through the Elements Spa Trail, combining therapeutic techniques and the healing power of nature. Escape into Nature and let forest bathing imbue you with calm. From £205 per room per night or £305 with the spa experience. Visit https://www.finnlough.com/  for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Ards and North Down’s Arts and Heritage Autumn Programme is Unveiled!

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Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts and Heritage Autumn Programme has just been released! The exciting schedule of music, events, exhibitions, classes and workshops, covers the September to December period and will be available online to explore and for bookings on Wednesday 30 August.

Highlights from the Autumn Programme include Aspects Festival which is happening from 27 September – 7 October in Bangor and presents another fantastic programme celebrating Irish writing. Renowned for showcasing well-known authors as well as local and emerging talent, the Festival offers an array events exploring memoir, politics, history and poetry as well as new writing, workshops, discussions and more.

The Enchanted House of Puppetry makes a welcome return to Ards Arts Centre on 29 and 30 October, where lots of friendly puppets will ensure everyone has a truly magical experience. Presented by Ards Puppet Festival, the event will feature shows by Banyan and Clydebuilt Theatre and the Garlic Theatre Company with Snug and Grub Catch a Bug and The Bag That Went Boo! Fun for all the family!

Ards Arts Centre is delighted to welcome back the Creative Peninsula Christmas Fayre for the first time since 2019. On Friday 1 and Saturday 2 December, visitors can enjoy a unique shopping experience as Creative Peninsula Artists and Makers showcase and sell their artwork. The perfect place to find that special Christmas gift.

For those who prefer a more hands on approach or would like to learn a new skill, Ards Arts Centre has a full programme of creative classes where you can try something new and create your own unique art and craft.

Music lovers can look forward to the return of the Music in the Chamber series of events at Bangor Castle and the popular Friday Night Live events at Ards Arts Centre.

North Down Museum have lots of intriguing exhibitions happening over the Autumn period, including a ‘Strangford Horse and Other Tales’ a collection of paintings by artist Xander which will be showing in the museum’s Long Gallery from 3 October to 19 November.

The Museum is also delighted to welcome back the Made in AND: Pop-Up Christmas Shop. From 22 November to 7 January, the Museum’s galleries will be filled with beautiful hand-made products from local artists and makers, available for visitors to browse and purchase.

Speaking about the Guide, Arts and Heritage Manager Emily Crawford said: “We have a jam-packed programme for you this autumn/winter with lots of live music, exhibitions, festival events and seasonal activity to get you into the festive spirit. If a hands-on approach is what you’re after we have a brand-new term of creative classes and workshops to encourage your creativity. We look forward to welcoming you to Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum soon.”

View the full Autumn programme and book tickets at: www.andculture.org.uk

Printed copies of the Autumn Arts and Heritage guide are available from Ards Arts Centre and North Down Museum.

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